MLS: New England 1, FC Dallas 0

FRISCO, Texas, April 24 (UPI) -- Khano Smith scored in the 72nd minute Thursday, giving shorthanded New England a 1-0 win over FC Dallas.

The Revolution came into the game minus six starters due to injury and suspension, but New England improved to 3-2-1. The first loss of the year dropped Dallas to 2-1-2.

New England's key absence was that of Taylor Twellman, the team's top striker who has been out all season with a knee injury. Steve Ralston, the MLS all-time leader in assists, is out of action with shoulder problems.

Smith scored on a tremendous individual effort that saw him dash down the left side of the field, cut inside to the top of the penalty area and fire a shot past goalkeeper Dario Sala.

Sala had not allowed a goal for 252 minutes.

New England's Matt Reis earned his second shutout of the season.